Do It Yourself Above-Ground Pool Setup?

You like to fix things yourself, right? Do you feel up to the challenge of putting in a pool? If so, you undoubtedly already know that above-ground pools are easier and cheaper to set up than in-ground ones, with the typical cost of hiring a pool contractor to set up an above-ground pool falling somewhere between $500 and $1,000. Above-ground pool installation can be done independently to save money if you are handy with tools and have a few pals to help.

We have outlined some of the procedures involved in completing this task. However, it’s important to remember that every pool manufacturer has slightly different procedures, so it’s essential to read the instructions with the tool kit carefully. This is not an exhaustive list of what must be done to set up an above-ground pool on your own. Installing a pool is a significant undertaking; before beginning, be sure you can devote the necessary time and energy to the task.

Before doing anything else, read the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly.
Investigate the possibility of underground service lines. To find out if you need specialized building permissions, contact the local building and code officer. Before buying a pool, you should investigate local zoning regulations.
Pick the pool’s location with care. You should pick a place with good drainage and free of overhead power lines and shade. Remember that you will need to have electricity run to the pool location.

Create a hole by the specifications listed on the packaging.
The pool’s bottom rim and wall supports must now be assembled as directed. Drive stakes into the ground regularly after laying them to prevent the bottom rim from shifting as you build the walls. Bury some 16×16 patio blocks to make a solid base for the pool’s upright supports.

You’ve reached the point of putting up walls. Take careful note of the planned location of the power pad and any other necessary infrastructure at this point. The pool walls are typically quite hefty, so be sure to enlist the help of a large group of pals.
The sand should be raked to a depth of two inches after it has been poured in. Now is the time to shape the wall cove, as directed by the manual, to eliminate any harsh angles. To compact the sand, you will need to use a drum roller.
The pool liner should then be hung. In warmer weather, the liner is more pliable and less likely to produce wrinkles, making the process easier.
Next, set up the vertical supports and the upper rail. Make sure you read the directions for your pool to determine if the uprights need to be installed before or after the pool is filled with water.

Put water into the pool gradually. After ensuring the liner won’t be damaged, and the wrinkles are starting to smooth out, you can increase the water flow. Stop adding water once the pool reaches a depth of 1.5 feet, and check the water level to ensure it’s uniform. If the difference is over an inch, you may need to drain and re-level the pool.
The next step is to set up the pool’s machinery, such as pumps, filters, etc. You will also need to cut holes in the liner to install the skimmer and inlets. Your ladder and safety stickers will also be included.
It’s possible to put in an above-ground pool on your own if you have the right equipment, a can-do spirit, and a few willing helpers, but before you start digging, make sure you’ve read up on the process and have a firm grasp of the details.

Robbi Hess has been a freelance writer, editor, and blogger for over 20 years. On assignment, she has written professionally for newspapers, magazines, and book publishers. Please find out more about her here.

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